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Budgeting, Saving, and Planning: Keys to Personal Financial Responsibility – Maniya, Key Thinkers Scholarship Winner

 Published on January 18, 2024

Financial responsibility has always been more than just a buzzword to me; it's been a journey, a challenge, and a profound lesson in personal growth. As a student striving for success while facing the realities of limited resources, I've come to understand the true essence of financial responsibility.

My journey began when I set foot on campus as a first-generation college student. While the prospect of higher education held immense promise, it also brought with it the weight of financial responsibility. I knew that managing my finances wisely would be crucial in realizing my academic dreams and securing my financial future. The first step I took on this path was to create a budget. I detailed my income, which included part-time jobs, scholarships, and financial aid. Essential expenses like tuition, housing, food, and transportation were given top priority. This budget became my roadmap, guiding me through the financial maze of student life.

However, the reality of college life soon hit me. Tracking expenses revealed the countless temptations that could lead me astray from my financial goals. While my friends indulged in spontaneous spending, I found myself resisting the urge to splurge on wants rather than needs. Nonetheless, I was determined to build financial resilience. I established an emergency fund, understanding that life's unexpected curveballs required financial preparation. This fund became my financial safety net, protecting me from the financial strains of unforeseen medical bills or car repairs.

 Saving also became a cornerstone of my financial responsibility journey. Even though my initial contributions were small, they were consistent. I recognized that saving was not just about preserving money; it was about preserving my dreams and future aspirations. While these practical steps were crucial, perhaps the most transformative aspect of my financial responsibility journey was embracing a frugal lifestyle. I scoured for used textbooks, cooked affordable meals at home, and made the most of student discounts. These small choices added up over time, allowing me to allocate more resources toward my educational goals.

Throughout this journey, I never stopped learning about personal finance. I attended financial literacy workshops, devoured books on financial management, and sought advice from financial counselors. Each lesson I absorbed and each decision I made brought me closer to a state of financial responsibility.

My story is not just about navigating a budget but about navigating a path to financial independence and self-reliance. It's a story of a first-generation college student striving to break barriers, not just in academia but in the realm of personal finance. It's a testament to the power of education, not only in classrooms but in managing one's financial destiny.

In conclusion, my journey to financial responsibility is a journey of determination, resilience, and unwavering commitment. It's a story of turning financial challenges into opportunities for growth and empowerment. By embracing financial responsibility, I am not only securing my own future but also setting an example for future generations, showing them that with discipline and determination, they can overcome financial hurdles and pursue their dreams.


As a full-time student at North Carolina Agricultural & Technical State University, pursuing my Bachelor's in Finance degree, this scholarship significantly contributes to my educational journey. It not only alleviates financial burdens but also motivates me to continue striving for excellence in my studies and extracurricular pursuits.


Posted in: Scholarship


Disclaimer: This article provides general information only and does not constitute financial, legal or other professional advice. For full details, see MoneyKey's Terms of Use.

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